“Grey’s Anatomy” is a show that, by nature, is going to feature a wide array of characters arriving and departing. After all, we are talking about a series that is set at a hospital, and as a result of that it’s inevitable that there will be some turnover. Also, the show has been on for 13 seasons and with that cast members may want to branch out and try something new. lastly, let’s not forget that this is a Shonda Rhimes show and she is not afraid to remove a character that no longer makes sense for the story she wants to tell.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that we are happy about losing a beloved character in the slightest, and this is the position that we find ourselves in at present with Jerrika Hinton, otherwise known for her role as Stephanie on the series. Per a report from Deadline, the actress has been cast as a major character in a new HBO drama executive-produced by Alan Ball (“Six Feed Under,” “True Blood”) — basically, it’s the sort of opportunity that an actor doesn’t want to pass up. The show revolves around a multi-racial family in contemporary America, and her role is Ashley, a creator of a fashion website who struggles finding her place in the world because of being adopted at an early age and not feeling completely in touch with either the white or black experience.

What does this mean for Stephanie’s future? If this show launches, it does make us a little bit antsy. This is also not the first time that we’ve wondered this question with Hinton, given that she was previously cast in a comedy pilot from Shonda Rhimes’ production company entitled “Toast” that didn’t end up going to series — hence, her sticking around on this show. That should’ve been a sign that her days could be numbered on “Grey’s Anatomy”

We’ll wait and see what the future holds for Hinton — if she does end up departing “Grey’s Anatomy,” it is certainly our hope that she has as worthy of a send-off as possible.

What do you think about this particular bit of casting news? Share now in the comments, and head over here to secure some other news on “Grey’s Anatomy” and what could be coming up next! (Photo: ABC.)